Sacramento Felony Crime Lawyer
Aggressive Representation & Defense Throughout Sacramento County, CA
Facing felony charges places your personal, professional, and social life at risk. Felonies are among the most severe criminal charges you can face in Sacramento.
These charges can bring serious consequences, including long-term imprisonment, substantial fines, and a permanent criminal record. The stigma of a felony conviction can impact relationships, career opportunities, and even your ability to secure housing or loans.
Mathew Martinez has built a reputation for providing strong defense representation. As a former prosecutor, he understands how district attorneys pursue convictions and what strategies are needed to challenge their cases.
With over 20 years in criminal law, Mr. Martinez has the tools and legal knowledge to examine every element of your arrest and charges for weaknesses. He protects your rights while working to pursue the best possible results, whether through negotiations with the prosecutor or at trial.
Successfully defending against felony charges requires a thorough understanding of the law and courtroom procedures. This includes knowledge of every stage of a felony case, from preliminary hearings to trial. Building a strong defense may involve reviewing the legality of your arrest, the evidence collected, and law enforcement procedures to ensure all standards are met. Working with an experienced attorney can make a significant difference in minimizing the impact of a felony charge, including negotiating for reduced sentencing or alternative programs.
Request a free initial consultation with our Sacramento felony attorney at Law Office of Mathew Martinez by calling (916) 318-5142. You can also reach us using our online contact form. Hablamos español.
Understanding California Felonies & Their Impact
In California, a felony is a crime punishable by imprisonment in state prison. Felonies are more serious than misdemeanors and infractions, and include a wide range of crimes that vary in nature and severity. Courts typically classify a crime as a felony based on its potential to cause significant harm and its impact on the public.
Examples of felonies include but are not limited to:
- Arson: Malicious burning of property, including buildings and vehicles.
- Burglary: Unlawful entry into a building intending to commit theft or another crime.
- Robbery: Taking property from someone through force or fear.
- Kidnapping: Illegally taking a person against their will to another location.
- Drug Trafficking: Manufacturing, distributing, or delivering illegal controlled substances.
- Fraud & Embezzlement: Deceptive acts resulting in financial gain at the expense of others.
- Rape: Non-consensual sexual intercourse committed through force, threat, or intimidation.
- Sexual Assault: A wide range of unwanted sexual contact or behavior.
- Manslaughter: Unlawfully killing another without prior intent, divided into voluntary and involuntary acts.
- Murder: Unlawfully killing another with malice aforethought, divided into first-degree and second-degree offenses.
- Felony DUI: DUI involving bodily injury to another, three or more prior DUIs, or a prior felony DUI conviction.
- Aggravated Assault: Typically charged when causing serious bodily injury or when committed with a deadly weapon.
The classification of a crime as a felony in California also considers the circumstances under which the crime was committed. This includes the presence of any aggravating factors such as the use of a weapon or intention to cause significant harm. The legal system recognizes the serious nature of these offenses, and as such, individuals charged with felonies often face intense scrutiny and a rigorous legal process. Understanding the specific charges and potential defenses is essential for anyone accused of a felony, making legal counsel crucial from the outset.
Collateral Consequences of a Felony Conviction in Sacramento
A felony conviction can impact a person’s life far beyond time served or fines paid. In Sacramento, anyone convicted of a felony may lose important civil rights, such as the right to vote, serve on a jury, or possess firearms under both California and federal law. These consequences can disrupt personal and professional growth for years, sometimes even after completing a sentence or parole. Felony convictions also appear on criminal background checks, which employers and landlords commonly review in Sacramento’s competitive job and housing markets. As a result, job opportunities and access to housing in the city can become limited, leading to broader challenges in economic stability and community reintegration.
Immigration consequences carry significant weight in Sacramento’s diverse community. Non-citizens convicted of certain felonies may face deportation or lose eligibility for legal status adjustments, regardless of how long they have lived in the United States. This underscores the value of hiring a felony attorney who can recognize, flag, and, where possible, work to mitigate collateral risks as part of the defense strategy. In addition, some professional licenses—required for jobs in education, healthcare, or transportation—may be automatically revoked following a felony in California. Collateral issues make the defense process about more than courtroom advocacy; it extends to developing plans that help defendants safeguard their rights, families, and futures beyond the courtroom.
What Sets Us Apart
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Free ConsultationsWe believe everyone deserves access to quality legal guidance, which is why we offer free consultations.
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Trial-Tested RepresentationWith more than 60 jury trials under his belt, Attorney Martinez brings unmatched experience to every case, ensuring you're represented by a seasoned professional.
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Strategic ApproachWe believe in fighting for our clients with unwavering dedication and providing clear, strategic guidance every step of the way.
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Aggressive, Experienced DefenseWith 20+ years of experience, including 13 as a prosecutor, Attorney Martinez is known for his relentless, aggressive defense.
How Are Felony Penalties Determined in Sacramento?
California felony penalties are based on several factors:
- The nature and severity of the crime and its impact on alleged victims
- Prior criminal record, if any
- Involvement of weapons
- Aggravating or mitigating factors
Aggravating Factors in Felony Charges
Aggravating factors increase the severity of the crime and can bring harsher penalties.
These factors can include:
- Use of a deadly weapon
- Vulnerability of the victim, such as a child or senior citizen
- Protected individuals, such as law enforcement, firefighters, and other public servants
- Premeditation
- Gang involvement
- Hate crime motivation
Judges weigh these factors when determining sentences, with aggravating factors usually leading to stricter penalties. Courts want to address the seriousness of a crime and its impact on the community. Prosecutors also present evidence and testimony to show intent, which heavily affects sentencing. Understanding these factors provides context for how sentencing decisions are made.
In Sacramento County, district attorneys may pursue sentence enhancements in cases with aggravating factors. For instance, if the alleged offense took place near a school or included multiple victims, prosecutors often request the court to impose additional penalties beyond the standard sentence. Sacramento judges also consider the broader impact on public safety, especially in neighborhoods where crime rates are higher. The local trend toward tough sentencing in violent felony cases underlines the need for a strong defense that addresses every aggravating element the prosecution raises.
Mitigating Factors in Felony Charges
These factors can reduce the severity of the crime and its penalties, such as:
- Lack of a prior criminal record
- Remorse
- Playing a minor role in the crime
- Mental health issues
- Cooperation with authorities
- Being provoked or acting under duress
- Rehabilitation efforts
Mitigating factors play a critical role in lessening potential penalties for a felony conviction. These circumstances may have contributed to the behavior underlying the charge. Presenting these factors well requires documentation and careful presentation of evidence. Legal representation is key to effectively presenting these elements and potentially reducing sentencing.
In Sacramento courts, judges often place significant value on defendants' efforts to pursue rehabilitation or community service. For instance, involvement in local support programs or counseling may sway a judge toward granting probation or recommending alternatives to state prison. Sacramento defense attorneys frequently gather character witness statements and evidence of restorative actions before sentencing. When these materials are presented effectively, judges sometimes consider them as a basis for more lenient penalties or entry into diversion programs offered within Sacramento County. The nuances of local court procedures make these steps particularly important in building a persuasive sentencing argument.
Steps Law Office of Mathew Martinez Can Take to Defend Against Felonies with a Sacramento Felony Lawyer
Our firm provides comprehensive representation to people facing felony charges. We thoroughly review the evidence, find potential weaknesses in the prosecution’s arguments, and build a defense strategy tailored to the details of your case.
Mr. Martinez works to secure the best available outcome by negotiating plea bargains, seeking reduced charges, or preparing your case for trial. He takes a direct, hands-on approach with clients. Our team commits to protecting your rights and fighting for your freedom and future.
Our defense approach includes thorough investigation and detailed evidence gathering, making sure we review every part of your case. We consult with expert witnesses and use forensic analysis when necessary to address complex legal matters. Our approach is client-centered, meaning we build strategies based on your unique circumstances and needs while providing support throughout the legal process. With our in-depth knowledge and resources, we examine every possible defense path, upholding our commitment to justice and working towards the best outcome.
Working in Sacramento allows our firm to tap into local legal resources and networks. We leverage relationships with area investigators, forensic professionals, and recognized expert witnesses familiar with regional court proceedings. Our understanding of Sacramento’s court schedules, filing requirements, and administrative protocols ensures our clients remain informed and prepared at every stage. This regional focus enables our team to address procedural requirements quickly and to assess all possible options under local policies, such as eligibility for diversion or participation in alternative sentencing programs unique to the Sacramento area. Our hands-on approach provides clients with greater support from initial arrest through case resolution in Sacramento County’s legal system.
Call (916) 318-5142 or contact us online to discuss your case with our Sacramento felony attorney.
FAQs About Felony Charges in Sacramento
What Is the Difference Between a Felony & a Misdemeanor?
Felonies and misdemeanors are criminal charges, but felonies are more serious and carry more severe consequences. A felony can result in imprisonment for a year or more in state prison. Examples include murder, manslaughter, and certain drug offenses. Misdemeanors usually bring lesser punishments, such as fines, probation, or less than one year in county jail. Common misdemeanors include petty theft and simple assault. Understanding the difference between the two is crucial, as the classification affects your rights and your future. Always seek legal counsel if you face criminal charges.
How Can a Felony Conviction Affect My Future?
A felony conviction brings long-term consequences that go beyond the courtroom. Individuals convicted of felonies may struggle to find employment, as many employers conduct background checks and hesitate to hire applicants with criminal records. A felony can also hinder your ability to rent housing, as landlords often review criminal history. Felony convictions may result in loss of some civil rights, such as voting or owning firearms. These charges can affect personal relationships and your standing in the community. Quick response and knowledgeable legal guidance are crucial when facing a felony charge.
Can Felony Charges Be Reduced or Dismissed?
Felony charges sometimes can be reduced or dismissed, depending on the circumstances. Reduction often comes through plea agreements, where a defendant pleads guilty to a lesser charge to avoid the greater penalties associated with a felony. Dismissal could occur if prosecutors lack sufficient evidence, if there were arrest procedure mistakes, or if your rights were violated during the process. Achieving a reduction or dismissal usually requires a thoughtful approach from an attorney who knows the criminal justice process well and can advocate effectively for your interests.
What Are the Common Defenses Against Felony Charges in Sacramento?
The defenses available in felony cases depend on the charges and the facts surrounding the alleged crime. Common defenses include alibi, showing you were not present where the crime happened, and self-defense in cases involving violence. If law enforcement makes mistakes in procedure or violates your constitutional rights, those errors can make key evidence or witness statements inadmissible. Legal counsel may also argue lack of intent or lack of involvement. Each defense should be crafted based on the specific facts of the case.
Why Is a Local Defense Attorney Important in Sacramento?
Hiring a local defense attorney can make a significant difference, as they know the Sacramento court system, judges, and prosecutors. This understanding can affect defense strategies and negotiations. Local attorneys stay informed about trends in regional legal decisions and police practices, providing insight into how a case might proceed. Many local defense lawyers have connections with area experts and local investigators, which can help strengthen your defense. Local knowledge and courtroom familiarity give you an advantage in serious cases such as felonies.
Call (916) 318-5142 or contact us online to discuss your case with our Sacramento felony attorney.
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Matthew is a great lawyer who understands his client's needs. Took me on when everyone was trying to bring me down. Did not give embellished ideas. Was straight, honest and concise. You can not go wrong Matthew. Thank you sir if I could give you a hundred stars I would.David M.
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Azul A.
I highly recommend attorney Mathew Martinez. He did everything he could to successfully represent me in court, and consequently, I was able to walk charge free due to Mr. Martinez's persistence. He is incredibly professional and dedicated, and as such, I highly recommend attorney Mathew Martinez.
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“I myself have worked in legal services for over a decade with my own profession licenses and I rarely if ever come across an individual with his level of caring, attention to detail, and expertise.”Jeffrey H.
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“His experience as a DA puts him ahead of all others. He is a good honest attorney that can be trusted.”Dawn S.
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I would recommend Matt to anyone without hesitation. He went above and beyond to help me in a time of need, ease my nerves about the process and work professionally.Timothy M.
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“I wish there was option to give Mathew more than five stars because he truly deserves it.”Lala G.
